It is possible to find almost any beauty hint online. In one article, for example, the authors maintain that nothing says “healthy” or “cute” like a dusting of freckles on one’s nose. They go on to offer tips on how to fake cute freckles.

Freckles—one form of hyperpigmentation—are not beloved by everyone, however, so you can find many articles on how to eliminate freckles, as well.

There are more extreme forms of hyperpigmentation, which is caused by an excess production of melanin. Although the skin discoloration is not life threatening, the presence of dark splotches can cause psychological distress.

There are many possible causes of hyperpigmentation, including sun damage and skin injuries; it is also associated with a number of diseases or conditions, including Addison’s disease, Cushing’s disease, melasma (in pregnancy), smoker’s melanosis, Celiac disease, porphyria, ringworm, haemochromatosis, and mercury poisoning. It also can be caused by exposure to certain chemicals, such as salicylic acid.

If you are distressed by the appearance of areas of skin discoloration, you should consult with Dr. Usha Rajagopal, an expert cosmetic surgeon who can recommend treatments that will be appropriate for you.

Among the treatments she will consider are Hydroquinone, which works by inhibiting the production of melanin; microdermabrasion, which works by exfoliating the top layer of skin, and laser treatments.

If you are considering getting treatment for hyperpigmentation, you should make an appointment with Dr. Usha Rajagopal for a free consultation. Simply visit her site at www.sfcosmeticsurgery.com.

If you want to know what her patients have said about her, you can read their comments on the page of Dr. Rajagopal San Francisco Plastic Surgeon Reviews.